Can we chat for a sec about the most magical time of the year? No, I’m not talking about Christmas (though that’s pretty awesome too) – I’m talking about the whole winter season!
Whether you live for frosty mornings or you’re someone who needs a little nudge to appreciate the chilly months, I’ve got just the thing for you: a winter bucket list!
But first, here’s a super cute Winter Bucket List printable PDF you can download and print.
It’s perfect for keeping track of all your winter adventures and adding your own ideas. You can [download it here]
Okay back to the list. As someone who used to dread winter (hello, summer child here!), I’ve learned to embrace and even love winter.
Trust me, if I can do it, anyone can! So, let’s dive into these winter bucket list ideas that’ll have you wishing winter lasted all year long. (Okay, maybe not all year, but you get the idea!)
1. Build a Snowman
Let’s kick things off with a classic winter activity – building a snowman! There’s something so nostalgic and fun about rolling those giant snowballs and giving your frosty friend a personality.
Don’t forget the carrot nose and button eyes! And hey, if you’re feeling extra creative, why not make a snow family or even a snow pet? The possibilities are endless!
2. Go Sledding or Tubing
Channel your inner child and hit the slopes – the sledding slopes, that is! Find a local hill, grab a sled or tube, and prepare for an adrenaline rush like no other.
Just remember, what goes down must come up, so be prepared for a workout climbing back up that hill.
3. Have a Movie Marathon
On those days when it’s too cold to even think about going outside, curl up with a stack of your favorite movies.
My go-to winter lineup includes “The Holiday” (because of course), and “The Shining” (for when I need a reminder that my winter isn’t so bad after all). Don’t forget the popcorn and hot chocolate!
4. Try a New Winter Sport
Always wanted to try skiing or snowboarding? How about ice skating or curling? Winter is the perfect time to try a new sport.
And hey, even if you spend more time falling than gliding, you’re still burning calories and having fun. That’s a win-win in my book!
5. Make Snow Angels
This one’s for when you’re feeling a bit lazy but still want to play in the snow. Just fall backward into a fresh snowfall and wave your arms and legs. Voila!
You’re a snow angel artist. It’s like swimming, but colder and you don’t get wet (if you do it right, that is).
6. Have a Bonfire and S’mores Night
Who says bonfires are just for summer? Bundle up, light a fire (safely, of course), and roast some marshmallows.
There’s something magical about the contrast between the warm fire and the cold air. Plus, everything tastes better outside, even if your toes are a little chilly.
7. Go on a Winter Hike
See your favorite trails in a whole new light by hiking them in winter. The bare trees and snow-covered ground can make familiar places look like winter wonderlands.
Just make sure to wear appropriate gear and check trail conditions before you go. And maybe bring some hot tea in a thermos – you’ll thank me later!
8. Make Homemade Soup
Is there anything more comforting on a cold day than a bowl of homemade soup?
Try out a new recipe or perfect your family’s secret recipe. My personal favorite is a loaded baked potato soup – it’s like a hug in a bowl!
9. Have a Snowball Fight
Release your inner child (or your inner competitive beast) with a good old-fashioned snowball fight.
Divide into teams, build some forts, and let the battle begin! Just remember – no ice balls allowed. We want fun, not concussions!
10. Go Stargazing on a Clear Winter Night
Winter nights can offer some of the clearest skies for stargazing. Bundle up, find a dark spot away from city lights, and look up.
Bonus points if you can identify constellations or spot a shooting star!
11. Make a Winter Reading List and Cozy Up with Books
Create a list of books you’ve been meaning to read and make your way through them on chilly winter days.
There’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good book while snow falls outside your window.
12. Try Your Hand at Winter Photography
Winter offers some truly stunning photo opportunities. From frost patterns to snowy landscapes, grab your camera (or phone) and capture the beauty of the season.
Who knows, you might discover a hidden talent!
13. Have an Indoor Picnic
Missing those summer picnics? Bring the fun indoors!
Spread a blanket on the living room floor, prepare some of your favorite picnic foods, and enjoy an indoor feast. It’s all the fun of a picnic without the ants!
14. Make Homemade Hot Chocolate
Ditch the powdered stuff and try making hot chocolate from scratch.
Experiment with different types of chocolate, add some spices, or even a dash of peppermint schnapps for the adults. It’s like a science experiment, but tastier!
15. Go Ice Fishing
If you live near a frozen lake, give ice fishing a try. It’s a unique experience and a great way to appreciate the stillness of winter. Just make sure the ice is thick enough before venturing out!
16. Have a Winter Themed Game Night
Gather your friends or family for a night of winter-themed games. Think winter trivia, a snowman drawing contest, or even a “pin the nose on the snowman” game.
The loser has to shovel the driveway next time it snows! (Just kidding… maybe.)
17. Make Snow Ice Cream
Yes, you read that right – snow ice cream! It’s a fun and easy treat to make with fresh, clean snow.
Just mix it with some milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. It’s like making your own Dairy Queen, minus the drive-thru!
18. Create a Winter Self-Care Routine
Winter can be tough on our bodies and minds, so create a self-care routine to keep yourself feeling good.
This could include things like using a humidifier, doing some winter-specific skincare, or practicing hygge (the Danish concept of coziness). Your future self will thank you!
19. Try a New Winter Recipe
Winter is the perfect time to experiment in the kitchen. Try making a hearty stew, bake some bread from scratch, or attempt a complex dessert you’ve always wanted to try.
Even if it doesn’t turn out Instagram-worthy, it’ll warm up your kitchen!
20. Have a Snowflake Catching Contest
On a day when it’s snowing, go outside and try to catch snowflakes on your tongue or on a piece of black construction paper to see their intricate designs.
First one to catch five wins! It’s like Pokemon Go, but colder and more magical.
21. Create Winter Art
Get crafty with some winter-inspired art projects.
Make paper snowflakes, paint a winter landscape, or try your hand at ice sculptures if it’s cold enough outside. Your home will be a winter gallery in no time!
22. Have a Winter Scavenger Hunt
Create a list of winter-specific items to find (like a pine cone, an icicle, or a red berry) and go on a scavenger hunt.
It’s a great way to appreciate the little details of the season. First one to find everything gets to choose the movie for your next cozy night in!
23. Learn to Knit or Crochet
Winter is the perfect time to pick up a new hobby. Learning to knit or crochet can be relaxing and rewarding.
Start with something simple like a scarf – by next winter, you could be making sweaters!
24. Have a Polar Bear Plunge
Okay, this one’s for the brave souls out there. Take a quick dip in a cold body of water (safely, of course). It’s invigorating, to say the least!
If you’re not up for a full plunge, even just dipping your toes in counts. You’ve still earned your hot chocolate afterward!
25. Reflect and Set Intentions for the New Year
As the year winds down, take some time to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the new one.
Winter’s quiet stillness is perfect for introspection. Plus, it gives you a head start on those New Year’s resolutions!
Read next: 12 New Years Resolutions That Aren’t About Diet or Exercise (and Will Actually Change Your Life)
Remember, the key to enjoying winter is all about attitude (and maybe a really good pair of warm socks). Embrace the season for all its chilly, sparkly, cozy glory!
Don’t forget to grab that Winter Bucket List printable I mentioned earlier. It’s the perfect way to keep track of your winter adventures and maybe even start some new traditions!
I hope this list has inspired you to bundle up and make the most of the winter months. And hey, if you start working on this list now, you might just finish by the time the spring flowers start blooming!
